Lifestyle

Dog names revealed: American Kennel Club announces the top canine names in 2022

Decisions, decisions … 

Picking a name for a  household pet can be a challenge. 

If you have a new dog, however, you’re in luck. The American Kennel Club (AKC), based in Raleigh, North Carolina, has released its list of the most popular male and female dog names in 2022.

Over 38% of American households own a dog, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. 

Read on to see if your dog’s name made the list – or, get a great idea for a new name for that cute puppy you’ve just welcomed home.

The AKC revealed 100 of the most popular dog names, separating them by male and female names. 

Top girl dog names 

  1. Luna
  2. Bella
  3. Daisy
  4. Lucy
  5. Willow
  6. Penny
  7. Sadie
  8. Maggie
  9. Rosie
  10. Ruby

The most popular name on the list — Luna — means “the ancient Roman goddess personifying the moon,” according to Dictionary.com. 

Max, Milo and Cooper were among the top male dog names of 2022, according to the American Kennel Club.
Max, Milo and Cooper were among the top male dog names of 2022, according to the American Kennel Club. dpa/picture alliance via Getty I

Luna, Bella and Daisy have been neck-and neck in the AKC ranking for the last few years.

Top boy dog names  

  1. Max
  2. Milo
  3. Cooper
  4. Charlie
  5. Teddy
  6. Tucker
  7. Buddy
  8. Bear
  9. Rocky
  10. Leo

In 2015, the most popular boy dog names were Sawyer, Jack and Hudson, according to the AKC. 

However, Bear, Max and Cooper were on the short list years ago as well.

People spend a pretty penny to keep their pets happy, according to a new study.
People spend a pretty penny to keep their pets happy, according to a new study. Getty Images

American Kennel Club executive secretary Gina DiNardo said choosing a name for a pet is an important task. 

“Dogs are an important part of our families, and people take great care in choosing a name,” she said in a media statement. 

“It’s fun to see if a dog’s personality is reflected in its name,” she added.

The AKC offers some tips on dog-naming, too.